As residents of New Delhi and Mumbai, my spouse Mahir and I pride ourselves on our familiarity with Indian cuisine. We possess a discerning palate for authentic Indian dishes, a rarity in our current locale of New York City.
Despite the cosmopolitan nature of New York, opportunities to indulge in the flavors of India are scarce. Typically, we would satisfy our cravings by traveling to London or relishing the culinary delights during our visits back to India. However, our culinary landscape transformed when we crossed paths with Jimmy Rizvi and his array of innovative restaurant ventures in the city.
Hailing from Indore, India, Jimmy made a significant career shift from finance and concert promotion to the realm of restaurants. His journey commenced in 2015 with Korali on the Upper East Side, followed by the inception of NISI Estiatorio, a Greek/Mediterranean establishment in the West Village in 2017.
Recognizing a niche for a contemporary Indian dining experience characterized by warm hospitality and inventive cuisine, Jimmy realized his dream by introducing his Bombay-inspired concept in November 2018. This bustling establishment boasts an array of imaginative cocktails, premium tequilas and scotches, and a fusion of traditional Indian dishes with a modern twist. The delectable and shareable chicken biryani is a testament to this culinary innovation.
Subsequently, he ventured into the realm of fast-casual dining with an Indian street food concept at Chelsea Market, reminiscent of Mumbai’s vibrant Chowpatty Beach. Another endeavor, [ppp1], pays homage to India’s comfort food and is situated at Pier 57 on the West Side.
However, Jimmy’s crowning achievement may be his latest collaboration with acclaimed Michelin-starred chef and humanitarian, Chef Vikas Khanna. Together, they unveiled [ppp2] in the East Village, which has swiftly become the most sought-after dining destination in New York, boasting a staggering 1,500-person waiting list.
In a recent interview with Jimmy, we delved into his culinary empire under Bombay House Hospitality and the underlying formula for his remarkable success.
Exploring the Distinctive Restaurant Concepts:
- Bungalow: Reflecting the essence of India’s historic social clubs, Bungalow’s menu offers a unique culinary journey spanning from Kashmir to Kerala. Each dish is a manifestation of Chef Vikas’s travels across India, tailored for the discerning New York audience. The establishment’s distinctive design, curated by Jimmy’s sister Shaila Rizvi, features custom-made elements such as chairs, chandeliers, and plates, adding a touch of exclusivity.
- GupShup: Embracing modern Indian cuisine and craft cocktails, GupShup enjoys a dedicated following among both South Asians and New Yorkers alike, fostering a vibrant culinary community.
- Chote Miya: A contemporary take on Mumbai’s iconic Bade Miya, Chote Miya offers a casual dining experience in the heart of Chelsea Market. Known for its focus on kababs and street food staples like pani puri and rolls, this establishment fills a longstanding void in Chelsea Market’s culinary landscape.
- Ammi: Evoking the nostalgia of home-cooked Indian meals, Ammi exudes a comforting ambiance that resonates with patrons on a deeply emotional level. The authentic flavors and homely atmosphere strike a chord with guests, offering a culinary experience reminiscent of familial kitchens.
Unveiling Uniqueness Across Venues:
Each establishment under Bombay House Hospitality caters to a distinct demographic, emphasizing diverse Indian culinary offerings, craft cocktails, and meticulous attention to quality, presentation, and ambiance. The focus remains on tailoring each experience to the specific clientele while upholding the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
Setting Apart from the Culinary Landscape:
Rather than striving for differentiation, Jimmy’s vision is rooted in community integration and service. By crafting unique culinary identities for each venue, he celebrates the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine while adapting to the varied preferences of his clientele. The diversity across his restaurants mirrors the evolution of Indian gastronomy throughout history, offering a nuanced culinary narrative to patrons.
The Allure of GupShup:
GupShup stands out as a vibrant culinary hub, characterized by its energetic ambiance and delectable fare. Jimmy’s vision for this establishment was to create a dynamic space that marries exceptional hospitality with a contemporary aesthetic. The menu, crafted by his kitchen team, showcases a fusion of traditional Indian flavors with a modern New York twist, appealing to a diverse audience.
Elevating Indian Dining Experiences:
Jimmy believes that Indian restaurants in New York are not lacking in any aspect; instead, they excel in representing the diverse culinary landscape of India. Emphasizing mutual support and collaboration within the industry, he acknowledges the beauty of collective growth and evolution that has defined the Indian culinary scene in the city.
Navigating Success in New York’s Culinary Scene:
The secret to establishing a thriving restaurant in New York remains elusive, given the city’s abundance of dining options and discerning clientele. Jimmy’s advice underscores the importance of perseverance and innovation in navigating the challenges of this dynamic culinary landscape, emphasizing the gratification that comes from overcoming obstacles in the pursuit of excellence.
Words of Wisdom for Entrepreneurs:
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Jimmy advocates for resilience in the face of failure, urging them to adapt and pivot towards a more promising trajectory. Surrounding oneself with a dedicated team committed to a shared vision is crucial for achieving long-term success and realizing ambitious goals.